The basic steps in a vaginoplasty are:

  • The external genital (scrotum) and gonads (testes) are removed.
  • The external genital (glans) is made into a clitoris.
  • Space for the vagina is dissected between the bladder and the rectum.
  • Skin from the shaft of the erectile tissue (penis) is inverted to create the inner walls of your vagina.
  • Extra skin may be taken from the external genital (scrotum) to line your vagina. The hair roots on the skin graft will be cauterized.
  • The urethra is shortened.
  • Vulva (including a mons, labia, clitoris and urethral opening) are created using scrotal and urethral tissue.
  • A temporary urinary catheter is inserted into the bladder.
  • A temporary prosthesis or stent is inserted in the vagina.